Remodeling your home is a stressful but rewarding task. If you are apprehensive about the work involved to have that new kitchen or bath of your dreams, here are some of our tips to help you get through the process.

Plan Ahead

Probably the most basic piece of advice but a lot of things need to be planned and taken into consideration in this crucial first step.

It is important to plan EVERYTHING before you start on your renovation project. This will help the process go smoothly. Some important things to plan are your budget, design, finishes, fixtures, and materials.

–    Budget

Start with your budget, it is crucial to have that number figure before going any further. Leave some wiggle room for unexpected expenses that might come up so you aren’t caught off guard. Then you can move on to the fun part of designing your space.

–    Checklist

Create lots of lists! Lists of what you need to tackle for your space before, during and after. This will keep you organized and tracking progress. Besides, who doesn’t love the satisfaction that crossing something off brings?

–    Organization/Idea Binder

Make a file/binder to keep all of your lists and information together in one place. You should add your Pinterest finds and inspiration to this as well to talk through with your designer/contractor. Keeping things altogether will be one less of a headache in the future when you’re looking for that one random sticky note that was holding important information.

Traffic Patterns

Traffic isn’t just for the streets, it is also in your home. It’s important to think about the layout of your current space and how foot traffic patterns are going to affect your new space. Try not to hinder the natural flow of your home. You know the paths that are walked constantly and where people tend to hang out.

Storage VS Space

Make room for more storage, not too much free space. Yes, most everyone wants large airy kitchens and baths these days but what about your stuff? Think about what you use in your spaces and where its new home will be. Add plenty of well thought out storage to your new room. Chances are, you will regret if you don’t.

Visit a Showroom

If you need help narrowing down choices, visit a design showroom. They have lots of product to browse, installation ideas and professional consultants ready to help.

Backups/Temporary Spaces

Depending on how extensive your kitchen renovation is, it could take a long time. Any time without a kitchen sink/stove is just too long. The resolution? Set up temporary spaces away from the construction zone with a microwave/hot plate so you aren’t completely out of a kitchen.

Count on Countertops

You want a kitchen or bath renovation but don’t have the funds and/or time? Updating your countertops is a quick fix that can really transform your space. Adding a coat of paint or a new stain to cabinetry is also a quick and economical way to give your room a different look.

Communication

All happy relationships share good communication. Good communication with your designer, contractor, and any other personnel involved in your renovation is key! They cannot read your mind. It is important to express your thoughts, wants, and needs.

Remember the Big Picture

Yes, the journey can be long and tiring. You may have smooth sailing or lots of unexpected problems surface so it’s important to remember the end result and how your new space will be worth it.